Toleware Tin Box c. 1938

This drawing by American artist Frank Gray depicts a traditional Toleware tin box, a type of decorative folk art practiced in the United States from the 17th to the 19th century. Toleware involves painting decorative designs on tin surfaces, often using bright, vibrant colors, as seen in the intricate patterns of red, gold, and blue adorning this tin box. The piece showcases the craftsmanship and artistry of Gray's work, capturing the unique aesthetic of American folk art and its enduring influence. This drawing, completed around 1938, demonstrates Gray's interest in preserving and reinterpreting traditional art forms.